The Pitfalls of PEX Plumbing

PEX plumbing has become one of the most popular piping materials in new construction and repiping projects. Since repiping a property is one of the most disruptive and expensive building maintenance decisions a homeowner or property manager will face, it makes sense why so many are looking for a more cost-effective and easy-to-install alternative.  

In this blog, we’ll cover why what may be an affordable and DIY-friendly option in the upfront can have a costly and disruptive aftermath. 

• What Is PEX Plumbing?
• Is PEX safe for Drinking Water?
• The Cost of Cutting Corners
• Different Types of Plumbing Pipes
• What Should You Ask Before Installing PEX Plumbing?
• Is PEX Worth the Risk?

What is PEX Plumbing?

PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is a type of plastic piping used in water supply systems. It comes in several types, PEX A, PEX B, and PEX C, each manufactured differently with their own pros and cons. Known for its flexibility and resistance to freezing, PEX is easy to install and costs less than traditional materials.

But is PEX plumbing safe and reliable in the long run? 

Is PEX safe for drinking water?

While PEX pipes have been deemed safe for potable water (drinking water that has been treated to meet federal and state safety standards),there are other considerations that should be taken into account. 

Does PEX leach harmful chemicals into water?

Yes, PEX plumbing can leach harmful chemicals like toluene, ETBE, MTBE, and many others into water, as well as shed microplastics.  

What are NSF certifications, and why do they matter?

Many PEX manufacturers say their products are NSF/ANSI Standard 61 certified or compliant. But what are NSF certifications? NSF Standard 61 is a standard developed for products used for contact with drinking water that are manufactured off- site, not intended for immediate return to water on. It evaluates how much a material leaches into water, not whether the water remains clean or neutral in taste or smell.  

NSF 61 Standard 5 is a more stringent regulation. Epoxy coatings, such as those used in the patented ePIPE process, are tested to this standard, which requires a certified installer, testing for immediate return to water service, and a pressure test to 150 psi.

Some PEX installers or manufacturers say that they’re “compliant” with NSF standards, meaning they follow the necessary guidelines, but they haven’t gone through the official testing, audits, or certifications.

California’s PEX Regulations

California has implemented more rigorous standards around PEX installation than most states. The piping system was banned because of concerns of contamination of drinking water, failure of the pipes and PEX fittings, and the lack of recyclability. The ban on PEX pipes in the state was lifted in 2009, but in its place is a more cautious protocol for new construction projects.

• All domestic water lines must be flushed twice over a period of at least seven days before occupancy to reduce chemical contaminants released by new piping.
• Installers must be trained and certified for PEX installations.
• Fines and failed inspections are possible if local requirements are not followed.

However, for repiping existing homes and buildings, the usage of PEX plumbing systems comes with far fewer regulations, increasing risks for homeowners and occupants.

The Cost of Cutting Corners

While PEX may save money and time upfront, its long-term durability remains questionable.  

Class Action Lawsuits Against PEX

The hidden cost of PEX is proven in several manufacturers having faced class action lawsuits over fractures in the pipe fittings, small holes in the lines, flooding and property damage, and more. This can cause concern for homeowners and property managers, as these widespread issues were not caused by improper installation but in the construction of the PEX pipes themselves.  

What a PEX Warranty Covers

PEX warranties typically cover defects in manufacturing and materials. They do not typically cover damage caused by external factors or water conditions like corrosion or degradation. “Unfortunately, for most PEX and copper plumbing systems, the warranty is essentially void as soon as water touches the pipe,” says Jonathan Simon of FlowGuard Gold. Some warranties may also be voided if the piping system was not installed by a licensed professional or if any non-manufacturer-approved components were used.  

NYC’s Ban on PEX

NYC has banned the use of PEX piping due to health concerns, fire safety issues, and issues with rodents and UV exposure. The lack of historical data on PEX plumbing systems and questions on its long-term durability have also had an influence on the ban. Instead, NYC buildings and homes usually opt for copper piping systems.  

Different Types of Plumbing Pipes vs PEX

PEX A vs PEX B

PEX A and PEX B both resist corrosion. PEX A uses expansion-style fittings, allowing for easier flow and more flexibility. This also means it’s more resilient in climates where freezing and thawing occur. While both are considered cost-friendly options, and while both are known for leaching chemicals, PEX B is typically cheaper than PEX A and leaches fewer chemicals.

PEX vs Copper

Copper pipes are known for their durability as they can withstand high water pressure and temperature fluctuations. They’re more expensive than PEX, but can last much longer, with most lasting for decades. Learn more about the pros and cons of PEX and copper piping systems for your property.

PEX vs PVC

PEX and PVC, polyvinyl chloride, are both plastic piping materials. PVC is not typically installed for potable water (it’s usually used in drain, waste, and vent systems) but has been used as the main water supply line in some buildings since it can withstand high water pressure. PVC is more rigid and durable than PEX but is not as freeze resistant.  

PEX vs Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel piping used to be much more common but has been replaced by alternative options since it’s prone to corrosion and rust, unlike PEX piping. Galvanized steel does have good soundproofing and won’t warp or degrade at higher temperatures, but the potential health effects typically outweigh the advantages.

PEX vs Epoxy Coatings

Epoxy coatings, like ePIPE, offer critical advantages compared to repiping any material, but especially PEX pipes. Certified installers apply it internally to existing pipes, so there’s minimal to no need for any demolition or disruption. Epoxy coatings also require higher standards and certifications, meaning they’ve been pressure-tested, are resistant to corrosion and scaling, and they’re implemented by experienced professionals.  

What Should You Ask Before Installing PEX Plumbing?

• What type and brand of PEX are you installing?
• Has the installer been trained and certified?
• Are the installation conditions (UV, soil, chloring, etc.) taken into consideration?
• Is the plumbing warranty valid after water touches the pipe?

Is PEX Worth the Risk?

Repiping is never easy. It’s disruptive and costly, and it’s not something that you want to do twice. While PEX might save time and money upfront, its long-term risks are real and leave homeowners and property managers susceptible to expensive repairs down the road.  

Choose ePIPE for Protection That Lasts

For property owners who value performance, safety, and peace of mind, ePIPE’s patented solution offers an alternative to repiping. It can address any piping material, solving the root problems of corrosion, slab leaks, poor water quality, and lead leaching without introducing new risks.

We don’t tear out walls or open any floors or ceilings in most cases. Our approved epoxy is distributed through the piping system, coating the pipes in place. Once cured, water can be turned back on, and pipes are returned to service in as little as two hours, the fastest service approved in the industry.  

It doesn’t matter if it’s in a single-family home or a commercial property, ePIPE is NSF 61 Section 5 certified, is installed by trained professionals, and has an extensive warranty to ensure plumbing issues stay both prevented and resolved.  

Whether you’re looking for a leak detection company, a quick slab leak repair, or an alternative to the frustrating pipe replacement process, ePIPE is a proud protector of pipes across Maryland, D.C., Virginia, Florida, and Southern California.  

Contact ePIPE to learn more about our services.